Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rhoda Wheeler, owner of Agents In Style, located in Charlottesville, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Agents In Style offers women's designer and luxury brands, pre-loved and new, as well as personal stylist services. Our boutique features a highly curated collection of well-known brands from Chanel to Veronica Beard, as well as a selection of US-made designs. Our clients are able to access luxury brands at an affordable price point, in sizes 0-22. Our stylist services include special event styling, closet audits, wardrobe and style makeovers, and more.
Tell us about yourself
Fashion and style have been a passion for me my entire life, and I have worked as a fashion stylist as a side hustle for more than fifteen years. I have always worked in helping professions, from teaching high school to marketing and pr services for companies. I decided three years ago to open my own boutique, incorporating my styling business. I love working with people, especially women, to help them define and refine their styles. My consignors are, in many ways, partners in my business. I enjoy helping them pass on items from their wardrobe that they no longer need or want, recouping some of their investment, and feeling good about sharing high-quality items with others. Being able to offer luxury goods and a reasonable entry point, introducing many of my clients to the history and quality of well-made clothing and accessories is a brilliant experience!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Besides weathering the uncertainty and devastation of the COVID pandemic, I'd say my biggest accomplishment is staying true to my vision. The boutique is singularly focused on designer and luxury brands for women. We avoid fast-fashion and poorly constructed items. I offer a unique niche of high-end offerings to my clients and a great opportunity for both my clients and consignors to be part of the sustainable practice of consignment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There are so many joys, and I try to focus on them each day! However, it is difficult to get everything done that must be attended to while still making time for health and family. I learned fairly early on that good help is the key to maintaining some balance between work and personal life.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Research your market -- really study the location if you are brick-and-mortar. Similarly, if you are online, check out what approaches will make your business stand out. I'd also say find out as much as you can about local business improvement districts, business alliances, chambers of commerce, etc., and become a part of those that resonate with your vision and mission.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It's not as hard as it may seem to have an online presence, whether it's a shoppable website or social media. However, consistency is key -- focus on what you offer, share it and maintain your brand. There are almost daily new features and aspects of internet marketing -- find out what works for you, and work those avenues strongly and consistently.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://agentsinstyle.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopagentsinstyle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopagentsinstyle/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AgentsShop
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agents-in-style-luxury-consignment-boutique/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
